Jameis Winston Injury News & Updates

Winson is positioned to operate as the No. 2 quarterback behind Jaxson Dart, who cleared the concussion protocol Thursday, versus the Patriots on Monday Night Football.

Winston kept the Giants competitive in both of his starts while Dart was unavailable, though New York ultimately lost by one score to the Packers in Week 11 and in overtime to the Lions in Week 12. Across those two games, Winston completed 37 of 65 pass attempts for 567 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. He also rushed seven times for 23 yards and another score. While Winston will now revert to the bench, bumping Russell Wilson down to the No. 3 role, he remains a high-upside backup stash in fantasy formats that allow multiple starting quarterbacks.

Winston completed 18 of 36 passes for 366 yards, two touchdowns and an interception in Sunday's 34-27 overtime loss to the Lions. He added four rushing attempts for 13 yards and had a 33-yard touchdown reception.

Winston capped the opening drive with a 39-yard touchdown pass to Wan'Dale Robinson on a flea flicker and led the Giants to their first 10-point lead after the first quarter since Week 9 of 2020. Winston restored the 10-point lead by making it 17-7 with a 12-yard touchdown pass to Isaiah Hodgins in the second quarter. The Giants' offense cooled off in the second half until Winston broke out of a tackle attempt to score a 33-yard receiving touchdown thrown by Gunner Olszewski on a trick play with 12:16 remaining in the fourth quarter. Winston was picked off on the following possession as the Lions scored the game's final 17 points to stymie the Giants' upset bid. Despite providing a spark with his athleticism and aggressive approach, Winston has lost both of his starts, so he'll likely cede the Week 13 starting role to Jaxson Dart (concussion) if Dart clears concussion protocol in time to face the Patriots on Monday Night Football.

Winston will start Sunday's game against the Lions, as Jaxson Dart remains in concussion protocol, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

The Giants were optimistic earlier in the week that Dart would gain clearance to return following a one-game absence, but interim head coach Mike Kafka ruled Dart out Friday. Winston will make his second consecutive start after completing 19 of 29 passes for 201 yards with no touchdowns and one interception, while adding three rushes for 10 yards and a touchdown in a 27-20 Week 11 loss to the Packers.

With Jaxson Dart (concussion) "trending to play" against the Lions on Sunday, per Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com, Winston is expected to serve as the Giants' No. 2 quarterback in Week 12.

Winston took over the starting role for this past Sunday's loss to Green Bay and did fine, completing 19 of 29 passes for 201 yards with no touchdowns and an interception. However, there was never any doubt that Dart would resume starting duties when ready, and he appears to be in line to return against Detroit after returning to practice (albeit in a non-contact capacity) Wednesday. The rookie signal-caller remains in the NFL's concussion protocol, however, and in the unlikely event he's unable to be cleared by Sunday, Winston would be in line for another start.

Winston completed 19 of 29 passes for 201 yards with no touchdowns and one interception while adding three rushes for 10 yards and a touchdown in the Giants' 27-20 loss to the Packers on Sunday.

Called on over Russell Wilson for a Week 11 spot start in place of Jaxson Dart (concussion), Winston delivered a competent performance and had the Giants in contention for an upset until throwing a late end-zone interception that appeared to be caused by the intended receiver cutting his route short. Winston otherwise displayed virtually no rust despite not having played all season prior to Sunday, and he connected with six different targets overall. Dart may be ready to return for next Sunday's Week 12 road showdown against the Lions, but Winston would step in again should the rookie need another week to clear concussion protocol.

Giants interim coach Mike Kafka said Wednesday that Winston will start Sunday's matchup against the Packers, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Winston has overtaken Russell Wilson as the No. 2 quarterback in New York, and he'll officially start versus Green Bay in Week 11 with Jaxson Dart (concussion) still working his way through the NFL's protocol for brain injuries. Last season, Winston started seven games with the Browns (12 appearances) and compiled 2,121 passing yards, 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He's spent the 2025 campaign so far operating as the Giants' emergency No. 3 quarterback.

Winston is expected to draw the start at QB for the Giants against the Packers on Sunday, Jordan Raanan of ESPN reports.

Per the report, Jaxson Dart -- who is in the NFL's concussion protocol in advance of Wednesday's practice -- seems unlikely to play this weekend, and if he's sidelined, Winston rather than Russell Wilson would be in line to draw the start against Green Bay. Winston thus represents an option for those in QB-friendly fantasy formats, or who are otherwise in need of signal-caller depth ahead of Week 11 action.

Winston (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's matchup with the Bears, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Winston can only enter Sunday's contest if Jaxson Dart and Russell Wilson leave due to injury, illness or ejection. Winston hasn't appeared in a game yet this season.

Winston (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's matchup with the 49ers, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Winston would need Jaxson Dart and Russell Wilson to leave the game due to injury, illness or ejection to have a chance to enter. The former No. 1 overall pick has yet to appear in a game this season.

Winston (coach's decision) is inactive but will serve as the Giants' emergency third quarterback for Sunday's game against the Eagles, Evan Barnes of Newsday reports.

Winston will once again serve as the Giants' emergency quarterback. He'll only see the field Week 8 if both Jaxson Dart and Russell Wilson leave the game due to injury, illness or ejection.

Winston (coach's decision) is inactive but will serve as the Giants' emergency third quarterback for Sunday's game against the Broncos, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Winston will once again serve as the Giants' emergency quarterback, meaning he'll only see the field Week 7 if both Jaxson Dart and Russell Wilson were to leave the game due to injury, illness or ejection.

Winston (coach's decision) is inactive but available as New York's emergency third quarterback Thursday night against the Eagles, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Winston will continue to operate as New York's No. 3 option at quarterback in Week 6. The 31-year-old will only be eligible to play if both Jaxson Dart and Russell Wilson are forced to exit early.

Winston (coach's decision) is inactive but available as the Giants' emergency third quarterback for Sunday's contest at New Orleans, Dan Salomone of the team's official site reports.

For a fifth straight game to begin the season, Winston is New York's contingency in the event both Jaxson Dart and Russell Wilson make early departures. Winston has yet to log a play in such a role.

Winston (coach's decision) is listed as inactive but available as the Giants' emergency third quarterback Sunday versus the Chargers, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

While Winston will retain his role from the first three games of the season, the top of New York's QB depth chart has changed Week 4, with Jaxson Dart poised for his first NFL start and Russell Wilson handling backup duties. Winston will see the field only if Dart and Wilson suffer injuries.

Winston (coach's decision) is inactive but will serve as the Giants' emergency third quarterback against the Chiefs on Sunday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Winston will be the Giants' emergency QB for a third consecutive week while Daxson Dart serves as the backup behind Russell Wilson. Winston is not allowed to play Sunday unless Wilson and Dart were both removed from the game due to injury, illness or ejection.

Winston (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Cowboys but is serving as the Giants emergency quarterback.

First-round rookie Jaxson Dart will again work as the backup to starter Russell Wilson, with Winston continuing to suit up as the emergency No. 3 quarterback. Wilson struggled in his Giants debut last week, and Dart could get an opportunity if those struggles continue Sunday. Winston, however, can only take the field in Dallas if both Wilson and Dart are injured.

Winston (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Commanders but will serve as the emergency quarterback, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Winston entered training camp competing against rookie first-rounder Jaxson Dart for the QB2 job behind Russell Wilson. Winston lost that battle and will start the season as the emergency third-string quarterback, meaning he'll only play in Washington if both Wilson and Dart were to be sidelined. Winston signed with the Giants in March after starting in seven of 12 regular-season games with the Browns in 2024, when he completed 61.1 percent of his passes for 2,121 yards, 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.

Winston is listed as the Giants' QB3 on the team's unofficial depth chart ahead of Sunday's Week 1 game against the Commanders, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.

Winston spent the entirety of training camp and the preseason listed as the team's QB2 behind Russell Wilson, but rookie first-rounder Jaxson Dart had an impeccable preseason and has now leapfrogged the veteran as Wilson's top backup. Winston will now likely be inactive for Week 1.

Winston completed four of eight passes for 47 yards, with a touchdown and an interception, in Thursday's 42-10 preseason win over New England.

He was again outplayed by Jaxon Dart, who was the second-string QB throughout most of training camp and the preseason. Fourth-stringer Tommy DeVito also showed well Thursday night, throwing three TD passes, which could set the stage for the Giants to drum up trade interest in either Winston or DeVito. If Winston stays with the Giants, he'll merely be their No. 3 QB behind Russell Wilson and Dart.

Winston completed seven of 11 pass attempts for 62 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions in Saturday's preseason 34-25 win against the Bills.

Winston was the third quarterback to enter the game for the Giants, behind starter Russell Wilson and rookie Jaxson Dart. The strong-armed Winston couldn't get anything going with New York's offense on his first two drives, but he led the team on an 11-play, 67-yard drive in his third and final series, which he culminated with a seven-yard touchdown pass to Gunnar Olszewski and a subsequent two-point conversion pass to Thomas Fidone. Winston brings a big arm and a second veteran presence to New York's QB corps, but with Wilson locked in as the starter and Dart representing the team's future at the position, there isn't a path for Winston to make a significant fantasy impact unless injuries or ineffectiveness cause a shakeup in the pecking order.

Winston and Jaxson Dart split second-team reps Thursday in 11-on-11s, Patricia Traina of SI.com reports.

Reports from OTAs suggested Dart was typically the second QB through the rotation, behind starter Russell Wilson and ahead of Winston. It sounds like the second-team split was closer to 50/50 on Thursday, perhaps hinting at an even competition for the QB2 job. Winston signed a two-year, $8 million contract with the Giants in late March, a few days before they signed Wilson and about five weeks before they drafted Dart. Winston's contract includes $5.25 million guaranteed, so the Giants might try to trade him if Dart looks ready to back up Wilson by Week 1.

Winston and the Giants are finalizing a two-year, $8 million contract, Jordan Schultz of Fox Sports reports.

Per Schultz, the contract could be worth up to $16 million with incentives. Winston stepped into a starting role for the Browns last season after Deshaun Watson tore his Achilles, and he finished the campaign with 2,121 passing yards on a 61 percent completion rate and a 13:12 TD:INT over 12 contests while adding 83 rushing yards and a touchdown on 25 carries. For the time being, Winston looks to be in line for a starting role with New York, though the team could still pursue another quarterback in free agency or in the draft given that Tommy DeVito is the only other QB currently under contract. If Winston does land the starting role, he'll have one of the league's most talented young wideouts to throw the ball to in Malik Nabers, though turnovers have frequently been a flaw in Winston's game given his career regular-season 154:111 TD:INT over 105 contests. Winston missed the end of last year with a right shoulder injury, but that no longer seems to be a concern given the Giants' willingness to hand him a pot

Winston plans to visit with the Giants on Tuesday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

The Giants reportedly are waiting on Aaron Rodgers' decision while continuing to explore alternatives. They've already met/talked with 36-year-old Russell Wilson and 40-year-old Joe Flacco, making 31-year-old Winston the relative youngster of the bunch. There hasn't been any report of Winston needing surgery or dealing with major complications after he missed the end of the 2024 season with a right shoulder injury.

Winston (shoulder) finished the 2024 season completing 61 percent of his passes for 2,212 yards with 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions over 12 appearances. He also had a rushing touchdown and lost two fumbles.

This was likely Winston's one-and-only season with the Browns. He gave the team a boost mid-season after Deshaun Watson suffered a season-ending Achilles injury, but the short-term caffeine high wore off. A three-game stretch in which he threw eight interceptions, including multiple pick-sixes, ended his run as the starter. In between the turnovers, there were shining moments and legendary quotes for the media -- in other words, the whole Jameis package was on display in Cleveland. The shoulder injury does not seem serious and was likely helpful in the decision to turn the offense over to Dorian Thompson-Robinson and Bailey Zappe for the final three games. Winston will enter the offseason as a free agent and is unlikely find a team that would want to make him the No. 1 quarterback.

Winston (right shoulder) is the Browns' inactive third quarterback for Saturday's game against the Ravens.

Winston, who was listed as limited at practice Tuesday through Thursday, approached the contest listed as questionable. While he's been deemed the Browns' emergency No. 3 QB on Saturday, Bailey Zappe is slated to draw the start versus Baltimore, with Dorian Thompson-Robinson also expected to see signal-caller snaps in Cleveland's season finale.

Winston (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Saturday's game at Baltimore, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Winston doesn't appear to be in consideration for the Week 18 start, as coach Kevin Stefanski told Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN.com on Thursday that he intends to play Dorian Thompson-Robinson (calf) and Bailey Zappe under center. As a result, even if Winston is available Saturday, he likely will be the emergency third quarterback, at best.

Winston (shoulder) was a limited practice participant Wednesday, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Winston was also deemed a limited participant Tuesday, though that was an estimation since the team didn't practice that day. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has already stated that Winston is expected to be inactive as the emergency third quarterback for Cleveland on Saturday versus Baltimore, per Petrak. It's currently unclear whether Dorian Thompson-Robinson or Bailey Zappe will start behind center for the team's season finale.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said Tuesday that Winston (shoulder) will likely be inactive for Saturday's game at Baltimore as the team's emergency No. 3 quarterback, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Since being demoted from the starting role following a three-interception performance in a Week 15 loss to the Chiefs, Winston has been inactive for the Browns' ensuing two contests while he's been managing an injury to his throwing shoulder. The Browns have listed him as a limited participant in each of their last five practices, and Stefanski's comments Monday seemingly indicate that Winston is unlikely to make enough progress with his injury to make himself available as the top backup for the regular-season finale. With Dorian Thompson-Robinson having sputtered in both of his starts since displacing Winston atop the depth chart, Stefanski said he's leaving the door open for both Thompson-Robinson and Bailey Zappe to play snaps in Week 18.

Winston (shoulder) is inactive Sunday against Miami and will serve as Cleveland's emergency third quarterback.

Dorian Thompson-Robinson would have started behind center for the Browns regardless of Winston's status, but the latter's inactive designation will push Bailey Zappe to the No. 2 QB role Sunday. Meanwhile, Winston will be eligible to enter the game only if both Thompson-Robinson and Zappe are forced out of the game due to injury, illness, or ejection.

Winston, who is questionable for Sunday's Week 17 matchup against Miami due to a shoulder injury, is expected to be inactive and serve as Cleveland's emergency third quarterback, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Winston has been dealing with a shoulder issue since last week and appears in line to be inactive for a second straight Sunday. The veteran signal-caller was deemed the Browns' emergency third quarterback last weekend against the Bengals, with Dorian Thompson-Robinson getting the start and Bailey Zappe working as the No. 2 QB. Thompson-Robinson is in line to be the starter regardless of Winston's status Sunday, so the main takeaway if Winston is indeed inactive is that Zappe would again be set to serve as Thompson-Robinson's backup.

Winston (shoulder) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN.com reports.

Winston has been dealing with the shoulder issue for a couple weeks, and it's unclear if he'll get the green light to serve as Dorian Thompson-Robinson's backup in Week 17. If Winston is unable to gain clearance, Bailey Zappe will be Cleveland's QB2.

Winston (shoulder) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Winston has been working through an injury to his throwing shoulder, which forced him to serve as the Browns' emergency third-string quarterback in Week 16 against the Bengals behind starter Dorian Thompson-Robinson (calf) and backup Bailey Zappe. Offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey said after Thursday's practice that Winston's injury will determine whether he'll be the backup or emergency quarterback for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, per Chris Easterling of the Akron Beacon Journal.

Winston (shoulder) was listed as a limited practice participant on Wednesday's estimated injury report, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

After losing his hold on the starting quarterback job to Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Winston served as the Browns' emergency quarterback against the Bengals in Week 16 due to a right shoulder injury. Wednesday's injury report is a reflection of Cleveland's walkthrough that they held Tuesday, so Winston's practice participation over the next two days will determine whether he or Bailey Zappe will serve as the backup to Thompson-Robinson against the Dolphins on Sunday.

Winston (shoulder) is inactive as the Browns' emergency No. 3 quarterback for Sunday's game against the Bengals.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski announced Wednesday that Winston's seven-game run atop the depth chart would come to an end, with Dorian Thompson-Robinson replacing Winston as the team's starting quarterback. Winston then proceeded to open the week as a full practice participant, but the right shoulder injury resulted in him being a limited participant Thursday and Friday. Though the injury doesn't appear to be too significant, the Browns won't ask Winston to push through the issue while the team already had another quarterback (Bailey Zappe) on its active roster. Zappe will serve as Thompson-Robinson's top backup Sunday, but Winston could move into the No. 2 role next week if his shoulder shows improvement.

Winston (shoulder) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Bengals, Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN.com reports.

Winston has lost his gig as the Browns' starter, but coach Kevin Stefanski said Friday that Winston could still potentially be the backup to Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Oyesfusi adds. If Winston doesn't get cleared for the QB2 role, Bailey Zappe will handle those duties.

Winston (shoulder) was listed as a limited practice participant on Thursday's injury report, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

In addition to being demoted to the backup quarterback behind Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Winston is now dealing with an injury to his throwing shoulder. If the injury prevents Winston from suiting up against the Bengals on Sunday, then Bailey Zappe would be in line to take over as the No. 2 quarterback behind Thompson-Robinson.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said Wednesday that Winston will operate as the backup to Dorian Thompson-Robinson during Sunday's game against the Bengals, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Stefanski officially announced Wednesday that Winston won't start versus Cincinnati, and he said that his decision-making at the quarterback position will be "week-to-week," per Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer. As such, it seems as though Thompson-Robinson's odds of securing the starting gig for the remainder of the regular season will be in his own hands Sunday, while if he logs a poor performance Winston could get a chance to reclaim the No. 1 role Week 17 or Week 18. Across seven starts this season, Winston completed 61.6 percent of his throws for 2,038 yards (7.2 YPA) and 12 touchdowns, while also tossing 12 interceptions. He's also logged five fumbles, losing two of them, and threw one touchdown in relief action Week 7.

Winston appears set to move into a backup role for Sunday's game against the Bengals while Dorian Thompson-Robinson takes over as the Browns' starting quarterback, Brad Stainbrook of 247Sports.com reports.

The quarterback change isn't expected to be confirmed until head coach Kevin Stefanski speaks to the media Wednesday, but the Browns appear motivated to give Thompson-Robinson an extended look under center as the season winds down to better assess whether the 25-year-old fits into their long-term plans. Winston, meanwhile, is on an expiring contract, and has seen his mistakes compound in recent weeks. Since taking over as the Browns' starting quarterback Week 8 in place of the injured Deshaun Watson (Achilles), Winston has injected life into a dormant passing attack by completing 61.6 percent of his throws for 2,038 yards (7.2 YPA) and 12 touchdowns over his seven starts, but he's also thrown 12 interceptions and has lost two fumbles while Cleveland has gone 2-5 under his direction. He tossed three of those interceptions and led just one scoring drive in this past Sunday's 21-7 loss to the Chiefs before being lifted midway through the fourth quarter in favor of Thompson-Robinson.

Coach Kevin Stefanski said after Sunday's 21-7 loss to the Chiefs that he'll make a decision later on the Browns' starting quarterback after the Browns benched Winston in the fourth quarter in favor of Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN.com reports.

Prior to yielding QB duties to Thompson-Robinson midway through the final quarter, Winston completed 16 of 25 passes for 146 yards, no touchdowns and three interceptions, was sacked five times for a combined loss of 37 yards and had two carries for minus-2 yards. On the Browns' only score, Winston handed the ball off to Jerome Ford, who did the rest of the work on a 62-yard TD. Thompson-Robinson didn't fare better than Winston on his two possession: 4-for-9 passing for 18 yards and a pick and three rushes for 16 yards. It's unclear when Stefanski may make a call between the two ahead of next Sunday's game at Cincinnati, but Winston seems to be in danger of getting benched, at least in the short term.

Coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed Monday that Winston will start Sunday's game against the Chiefs, Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN reports.

When asked Monday why he wouldn't consider using the final four games of the season to evaluate backup QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson now that the 3-10 Browns have been eliminated from playoff contention, Stefanski noted "our focus right now is just trying to find ways to get a win." Winston -- who's logged a 2-4 record as the team's starter -- is thus slated to face 12-1 Kansas City this weekend on the heels of a Week 14 effort in which he completed 24 of 41 passes for 212 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in a 27-14 loss to the Steelers.

Winston completed 24 of 41 passes for 212 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in Sunday's 27-14 loss to the Steelers.

As is typically the case, Winston had impressive moments but also made a couple of backbreaking mistakes. The former came midway through the first quarter when he stepped up into the pocket and delivered a strike down the seam to Jerry Jeudy for a 35-yard score. Winston also led a long touchdown drive in the final quarter that concluded with a 15-yard toss to David Njoku to find the end zone and keep the Browns' hopes of a comeback alive. However, he turned the ball over multiple times for the third straight game and fourth time in six starts on the campaign, the first of which changed the momentum of the contest. After the game, coach Kevin Stefanski declined to confirm that Winston would start in Week 15 against the Chiefs, per Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Winston completed 34 of 58 passes for 497 yards with four touchdowns and three interceptions while adding three rushes for 11 yards in the Browns' 41-32 loss to the Broncos on Monday night. He also threw a two-point conversion pass.

Winston's final line was a signature one for a quarterback who's always combined a high risk tolerance with ill-timed throws, a recipe for an abundance of both yardage and turnovers. Both came to fruition Monday night, with Winston impressively dissecting what had been a suffocating Denver secondary over the course of the game with a major assist from former Broncos receiver Jerry Jeudy. Winston connected with Jeudy for 235 of his 497 yards, including a 70-yard touchdown, and he also facilitated a 100-yard performance for Elijah Moore while tallying a pair of scoring tosses to David Njoku (eight, four yards) and another to Nick Chubb (five yards). However, Winston's last two interceptions snuffed out any hope of a Cleveland victory, with Ja'Quan McMillian recording the Broncos' second pick-six of the night at the 1:48 mark of the fourth quarter to expand a 34-32 lead, and Cody Barton then snagging a pass intended for Njoku in the end zone with 44 seconds remaining. Despite the unpleasant finish for Winston an

Winston completed 18 of 27 passes for 219 yards with no touchdowns and one interception and rushed three times for seven yards and a touchdown in the Browns' 24-19 win over the Steelers on Thursday night. He also lost a fumble and threw a two-point conversion pass.

Winston braved increasingly deteriorating weather conditions throughout the hard-fought victory and ultimately led the Browns to an upset with the help of his leaping two-yard fourth-down touchdown run and subsequent two-point conversion pass to David Njoku early in the fourth quarter. Winston also drove the Browns down for a game-winning score with a nine-play, 45-yard march through the snow, and while he finished with his lowest passing yardage total yet over his four starts, that was understandable given the circumstances, which included a matchup against one of the league's most talented defenses. It doesn't get any easier for Winston and the Browns, as they travel to face the Broncos in a Week 13 Monday night matchup on Dec. 2.

The weather forecast for Thursday's game against Pittsburgh suggests Winston may not throw as much in his fourth start since taking over as the starting quarterback, Zac Jackson of The Athletic reports.

Winston attempted at least 41 passes in his first three starts since taking over for the injured Deshaun Watson (Achilles), and the pass/run mix was 67/33 percent. His 395 passing yards, zero interceptions and 106.7 QB rating over 46 attempts was impressive in the loss to New Orleans last week; however, Thursday's forecast of 20-mph swirling winds and 90-percent chance of precipitation (rain or snow) indicate the quarterback will be handing the ball off more than throwing it.

Winston completed 30 of 46 passes for 395 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 35-14 loss to the Saints. He added eight rushing yards on his only carry.

The veteran quarterback put together his best performance since taking over the Browns' starting job, but it went for naught as the Cleveland run defense couldn't figure out how to stop Taysom Hill. Winston found Jerry Jeudy for an 89-yard catch-and-run late in the first quarter before hitting Elijah Moore for a 30-yard score in the third, and his 395 yards were his highest single-game total since the 2019 season, when he reached 400 yards on three separate occasions en route to the league passing-yards crown. There was some question whether Winston would keep the starting gig after getting picked off three times by the Chargers in Week 9, but there should be no such discussion heading into a Week 12 clash with the Steelers.

Winston will continue starting at quarterback for the Browns, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Winston had a rough go of it against the Chargers in Week 9, which left the door open for a potential quarterback change. However, head coach Kevin Stefanski announced Monday that Winston will remain Cleveland's primary signal-caller. As such, expect Winston to be under center when the Browns square off against the Saints -- the team Winston spent the last four seasons with -- in Week 11.

Winston completed 26 of 46 passes for 235 yards yards with a touchdown and three interceptions and rushed five times for 27 yards in the Browns' 27-10 loss to the Chargers on Sunday. He also fumbled once but recovered.

Winston padded his stats some late and threw a 17-yard touchdown pass to Cedric Tillman after the game was out of reach, but the overarching theme to his afternoon was constant struggles to find open targets. The Chargers' defense was relentless throughout the day, sacking Winston six times and picking him off on three occasions in their own territory, including twice in the red zone. Despite the ragged performance against a talented unit, Winston shouldn't be in any danger of losing his grip on the starting job heading into a Week 10 road matchup against the Saints.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said Monday that Winston will continue to start at quarterback heading into a Week 9 matchup against the Chargers, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Stefanski praised Winston's ability to go through progressions in his first start of the 2024 campaign, an upset 29-24 win over the Ravens on Sunday. Winston completed 27 of 41 passes for 334 yards, three touchdowns and zero interceptions versus Baltimore, a statline superior in terms of both yards and TDs to any of the seven starts that Deshaun Watson (Achilles) logged for the Browns prior to going down with a season-ending injury. Winston connected with Cedric Tillman on a pair of touchdowns versus the Ravens, as well as one to tight end David Njoku, with all three of his scores coming on passes of 20-plus yards. Winston's aggressive tendencies and willingness to push the ball downfield will place him on the fantasy radar for the remainder of the season, though he faces a tough matchup against Los Angeles in Week 9.

Winston completed 27 of 41 passes for 334 yards, three touchdowns and zero interceptions in Sunday's 29-24 win over the Ravens.

Winston drew his first start with the Browns and out-dueled Lamar Jackson in a back-and-forth contest. He was aided by volume but still managed 8.1 yards per attempt and five completions of at least 20 yards. Additionally, Winston showed rapport with all of his key skill-position players, highlighted by a pair of touchdown passes to Cedric Tillman of 22 and 38 yards as well as another to David Njoku for a 23-yard score. He was bailed out at the end of the game when an interception was dropped by Kyle Hamilton, but Winston's performance was strong overall and lifted the entire Cleveland offense.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed Wednesday that Winston will start Sunday's game against the Ravens, Kelsey Russo of the team's official site reports.

With Deshaun Watson (Achilles) out for the season and Dorian Thompson-Robinson dealing with a finger injury, Winston is the next signal caller up for the Browns, after entering this past Sunday's 21-14 loss to the Bengals, despite approaching the contest as the team's emergency third QB. It remains to be seen if Thompson-Robinson -- who is in line to practice in some capacity Wednesday -- will be available as a backup this weekend, but if not, newcomer Bailey Zappe would assume the role. Winston thus represents a fantasy option for those looking to replace Watson or who are otherwise seeking quarterback depth ahead of Week 8 action. Following Amari Cooper's trade to the Bills, Winston's top pass-catching options are currently TE David Njoku, WRs Jerry Jeudy, Cedric Tillman and Elijah Moore.

The Browns plan to start Winston under center in Sunday's game against the Ravens, Jordan Schultz of Fox Sports reports.

With Deshaun Watson (Achilles) out for the year, Cleveland is expected to go with Winston as their No. 1 option at quarterback, and Dorian Thompson-Robinson (finger) in a backup role should he be cleared to play. The Florida State product entered last week's 21-14 loss as the emergency third QB and completed five of 11 pass attempts for 67 yards and a touchdown. He will now have a full week of preparation before Sunday's divisional matchup with Baltimore.

Winston entered Sunday's 21-14 loss to the Bengals as the emergency quarterback after Deshaun Watson (Achilles') and Dorian Thompson-Robinson (finger) were removed. Winston completed 5-of-11 pass attempts for 67 yards and a touchdown.

Inactive to start the day, Winston entered late in the fourth quarter and engineered a touchdown drive on the Browns' final possession. Watson's injury is feared to be season-ending, and Thompson-Robinson will be evaluated throughout the practice week leading up to Week 8 against the Ravens. Pending Thompson-Robinson's ability to grip and throw the football, Winston could be the starter next Sunday.

Winston (coach's decision) is inactive Week 7 against the Bengals.

Winston did not show up on the Cleveland injury report this week, so it appears a conscious decision was made to promote Dorian Thompson-Robinson to the active roster for Week 7's matchup against Cincinnati. Winston, meanwhile, will serve as the emergency third quarterback. No reason has been provided for this change.

Winston completed his only pass attempt for 16 yards and played five plays in Sunday's 34-13 loss to Washington in Week 5.

Winston was given mop-up duty in the Browns' fourth loss in five games. The offense, which was held to under 20 points for a fifth time, was inconsistent, and Deshaun Watson isn't helping matters. It seems to be time for a change at quarterback, but head coach Kevin Stefanski was adamant about staying the course following the game, per Zac Jackson of The Athletic.

Winston had two carries for one yard in Sunday's 21-15 loss to the Giants in Week 3.

For the second straight week, Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski deployed Winston in short-yardage situations. He was successful on one of two quarterback sneaks Sunday.

Winston had two carries for four yards in Sunday's 18-13 win over the Jaguars in Week 2.

Winston, who made his season debut, entered the game on 4th-and-short situations, and the Browns converted each one. He was used twice on quarterback sneaks and handed off to Jerome Ford, who scampered 36 yards.

The Browns will field calls for Winston after the team kept four quarterbacks on the initial 53-man roster, Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Cabot cites sources that the Browns will listen to offers on Winston as well as Tyler Huntley, which suggests Dorian Thompson-Robinson may be viewed as the top backup to Deshaun Watson. Something will happen between now and the regular season, as keeping four quarterbacks would be an unnecessary luxury.

Winston completed four of five passes for 30 yards in Saturday's 23-10 preseason loss to the Packers.

The veteran quarterback led the Browns' offensive starters to a field goal on the team's first possession, but Cleveland wouldn't score again until the fourth quarter. Winston was working without any of the Browns' top targets, instead connecting with the likes of Cedric Tillman, David Bell (quadriceps) and Michael Woods before handing the reins over to Tyler Huntley. Winston will head into Week 1 as the primary backup to Deshaun Watson, a job that could result in him seeing more action than expected considering Watson has played only 12 total games over the prior two seasons.

Winston will start Saturday's preseason opener against the Packers, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

The Browns have opted to sit top QB Deshaun Watson for the contest, which sets the stage for Winston to get the nod versus Green Bay, with Tyler Huntley and Dorian Thompson-Robinson candidates to follow once Winston gets his snaps. Beyond Saturday's tilt, it's unclear whether Watson will end up seeing any preseason action.

Winston has agreed to a one-year contract with the Browns, Jake Trotter of ESPN reports.

Winston, who spent the past four seasons with the Saints, a stint that included 10 starts, is now set to replace Joe Flacco as the Browns' No. 2 quarterback behind Deshaun Watson. The 30-year-old, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, gives Cleveland an experienced veteran option to turn to should Watson -- who is bouncing back from a season-ending shoulder issue -- encounter any injury issues this coming season.

The Browns are reportedly closing in on a deal to add Winston, Jake Trotter of ESPN reports.

If such a move indeed transpires, Winston -- who is still technically under contract with the Saints -- would be in line to replace Joe Flacco as the team's No. 2 quarterback behind Deshaun Watson. The Browns also roster Dorian Thompson-Robinson, but Winston -- the No. 1 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft -- has ample starting experience, and Watson is coming off an injury-shortened 2023 campaign.

Winston completed 25 of 47 passes for 264 yards and two touchdowns to three interceptions across seven appearances.

Winston was firmly planted as the Saints' No. 2 quarterback behind Derek Carr this season. The veteran backup saw meaningful playing time in three of his seven appearances when Carr was forced out with injuries. While the latter quarterback was plagued by injury for much of the season, he still managed to start all 17 games for the Saints. As a result, Winston had his least productive season since 2020 when he first joined the Saints. While on a small sample size, his completion percentage (53) and yards per attempt (5.6) fell short of his averages from the past two seasons, though his overall play didn't seem to take a significant hit. Winston has one season remaining on his current two-year, $28 million contract with the Saints, and he'll likely compete with Jake Haener for the team's No. 2 QB job heading into the 2024 campaign.

Winston is expected to remain in a backup role for Sunday's game against the Panthers after the Saints announced Saturday that quarterback Derek Carr (concussion/rib/shoulder) was cleared to start the Week 14 contest, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

In addition to exiting this past Sunday's loss to the Lions with a non-displaced rib cartilage fracture and an injury to his throwing shoulder, Carr was also diagnosed with a concussion, marking the second time in less than a month that he was subject to the five-step protocol for head injuries. Winston, who completed two of five pass attempts for 41 yards over his nine snaps in relief of Carr in Week 13, ended up taking some first-team reps in practice this week to keep himself prepared for a potential start against the Panthers. However, with Carr demonstrating enough progress in his recovery from the three injuries to turn in a full practice Friday, he was then cleared from the concussion protocol later that day before the Saints officially removed from their Week 14 injury report Saturday. Winston hasn't started a game since Week 3 of the 2022 season and will once again have to wait on another chance to direct the New Orleans offense with Carr getting the green light to play.

Saints head coach Dennis Allen said Friday that he's managed the quarterback snaps between both Winston and Derek Carr (concussion/rib/shoulder) during practice this week in the event Carr isn't available for Sunday's game against the Panthers, Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Carr has started all 12 of the Saints' games to date, but his status heading into the weekend may be murkier than ever before after he entered the concussion protocol for the second time this season following his removal from last Sunday's 33-28 loss to the Lions. Carr is also nursing a pair of injuries in addition to the concussion, but he was able to stay involved in practice throughout the week, logging limited sessions Wednesday and Thursday before advancing to full activity Friday. If Carr can gain clearance from an independent neurologist Saturday, he could be removed from the protocol and handle his usual starting duties Sunday, but if not, Winston looks like he'll be prepared to direct the offense. While coming on in relief of Carr on five occasions this season, Winston has completed 25 of 47 pass attempts for 264 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions.

Winston completed two of five passes for 41 yards during Sunday's 33-28 loss to the Lions.

Winston stepped in under center after starting quarterback Derek Carr sustained a head injury on a sack and was carted off the field in the fourth quarter. The 29-year-old backup completed his first pass to wideout Chris Olave for a 30-yard gain, setting up a one-yard rushing touchdowns for running back Alvin Kamara that pulled the score to 33-28. But, Winston then threw three straight incompletions that led to a turnover on downs on the Saints' ensuring offensive series. This marked the third time Winston has seen the field due to an in-game injury to Carr, and the No. 2 QB has produced mixed results, completing 25 of 46 passes for 264 yards and three touchdowns to three interceptions. With Carr now in concussion evaluation, it's possible Winston will have to start the Week 14 contest against Carolina.

Winston completed 13 of 25 passes for 122 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions in Sunday's 27-19 loss to the Vikings.

Winston entered the game midway through the third quarter after Derek Carr suffered a shoulder injury and a concussion. He immediately showed both the good and bad that he's been known for throughout his career, as he finished his first drive with a pair of deep passes to Chris Olave that resulted in a 14-yard touchdown pass. Two possessions later, he threw another score to A.T. Perry from 15 yards away. After the hot start, things went sour for Winston, as he threw a pick on back-to-back possessions to seal the loss. There's initial optimism that Carr will be able to return in Week 12 -- after the team's bye -- so Winston looks likely to immediately return to the bench.

Winston is expected to remain the Saints' backup quarterback Sunday against the Buccaneers with Derek Carr (shoulder) listed as questionable but in line to start the Week 4 game, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Carr suffered an AC joint sprain in his throwing shoulder after he was slammed to the turf by the Packers' Rashan Gary in the third quarter of the Saints' Week 3 loss to Green Bay. Winston came on in relief of Carr and completed 10 of 16 pass attempts for 101 yards, but he didn't produce any scoring drives as the Saints squandered a 17-0 lead. Though Carr initially appeared in line to miss at least one game due to the injury, he returned to practice in a limited capacity Friday and took all the first-team reps during Saturday's walk-through. Barring a late setback in pregame warmups, Carr looks poised to start without limitations, keeping Winston in his usual No. 2 role.

Winston completed 10 of 16 passes for 101 yards during Sunday's 18-17 defeat to the Packers.

Winston took over under center after Derek Carr sustained a right shoulder injury on a sack in the third quarter. With their starting quarterback forced out for the remainder of the game, the Saints turned to Winston to protect their 17-0 lead with just over a quarter-and-a-half remaining. Winston didn't manage to pass his team's own 40-yard line on his first three drives of the second half; however, the 29-year-old completed four of six passes for 45 yards to set the Saints up for a game-winning field goal on their final offensive series before kicker Blake Grupe missed wide right on his 46-yard attempt. Winston started 10 games over his first three seasons with the Saints, and his experience in this offense should help keep the unit afloat if Carr, who underwent X-rays before being taken to a local area hospital for further evaluation, is forced to miss any time moving forward.

Winston (wrist) wasn't listed on the Saints' first Week 1 injury report Wednesday, John Hendrix of SI.com reports.

Winston sustained a wrist injury preseason Week 3 against the Texans, a contest in which he completed 11 of 16 passes for 93 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions. With the health concern in the rearview mirror, he can turn his focus to being quarterback Derek Carr's primary backup for the 2023 campaign.

Winston (wrist) was held out of practice Tuesday, Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Winston hurt his wrist in the Saints' exhibition finale Sunday against Houston. The veteran quarterback put together a solid preseason, completing 35 of 50 pass attempts for 354 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions. His injury has been deemed minor, so it's likely that Winston will be ready to go as Derek Carr's backup when New Orleans begins the regular season Sept. 10 at home against Tennessee.

Winston completed 11 of 16 pass attempts for 93 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's preseason finale against the Texans.

Winston continued his strong exhibition play as he prepares to backup Derek Carr (rest) in 2023. The 29-year-old found fellow veteran and former division rival, Jimmy Graham, in the end zone for the Saints' only touchdown Sunday. With Carr slated to start Week 1, Winston carries no fantasy value ahead of the Saints' home opener against Tennessee on Sept. 10.

Winston is slated to start Sunday's preseason finale against the Texans, John DeShazier of the Saints' official site reports.

With top QB Derek Carr not in line to see action in the contest, per Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football, Jake Haener is on track to enter the game after Winston. As the coming season approaches, Winston is set to serve as the Saints' No. 2 QB behind Carr, providing the team with an experienced backup option to turn to should Carr miss time at any point.

Winston completed 13 of 21 passes for 169 yards in Sunday's preseason win over the Chargers.

The veteran quarterback played the entire first half before giving way to rookie Jake Haener, and Winston led three scoring drives -- including an impressive two-minute drill with just 33 seconds on the clock at the end of the second quarter that resulted in a 37-yard Blake Grupe field goal. Winston's experience and familiarity with coordinator Pete Carmichael's offense will keep him in the backup role behind Derek Carr, but he once again figures to see little action.

Saints coach Dennis Allen said that Winston will start Sunday's preseason game against the Chargers, according to New Orleans team reporter Erin Summers reports.

Allen also said that quarterback coach Ronald Curry will handle play-calling duties during Sunday's preseason contest. This makes sense given that the team is expected to hold out a number of players after most of the team's starters took the field for the opening drive of last Sunday's 26-24 preseason win against Kansas City, per John Hendrix of SI.com. Winston was the first Saints quarterback to take the field after starter Derek Carr exited during the first quarter of last Sunday's preseason opener. According to Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com, these two veteran signal-callers have taken almost all of the snaps during team drills in New Orleans' recent training camp practices. This essentially confirms that, as of right now, Winston has secured the team's No. 2 quarterback spot ahead of rookie Jake Haener. However, it's unclear how long Winston will stay in the game during this Sunday's preseason contest.

According to Jeff Duncan of NOLA.com, Winston's stock is trending down after he completed 11 of 13 passes for 92 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 26-24 preseason win versus the Chiefs.

Winston took the field to begin the Saints' second offensive series, and he wound up evenly splitting snaps (31) with rookie signal-caller Jake Haener. The 29-year-old backup started out very clean, including when, just four plays after being inserted into the game, he threw a 29-yard touchdown pass to rookie wideout A.T. Perry near the goal line. However, Winston looked to struggle with defensive pressure while working with New Orleans' second-team offensive line for most of the second quarter. He wound up being sacked three times -- the last of which pushed the Saints out of field-goal range near the end of the first half. Winston still outperformed fourth-round rookie Haener, who completed 10 of 17 passes for one score and a pick in the second half, so the veteran shouldn't be in jeopardy of losing the No. 2 quarterback role anytime soon.

The Saints and Winston agreed to a restructured contract Monday, Josina Anderson of CBS Sports reports.

The two-year deal that Winston signed last offseason initially came with a cap hit of $15.6 million for 2023. Following the restructure, though, he'll be able to make up to $8 million in the coming campaign, per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. Winston started the first three games of this past season for New Orleans before effectively getting shut down after Week 3 in favor of Andy Dalton, despite attaining full health by Week 7. Now with Derek Carr landing a four-year, $150 million contract with the team this offseason, Winston will remain a backup this fall.

The Saints offered Winston a restructured deal on Friday that would allow him to stick with the team for the 2023 season, Dianna Russini of ESPN reports.

If Winston were released as a post-June 1 cut the Saints would save $12.8 million against the cap, but it appears the team is open to keeping him in house as a backup to new top quarterback Derek Carr. The 29-year-old was relegated to backup duties behind Andy Dalton after beginning the 2022 season in the starting role, due in part to the fact that he suffered four fractures in his back Week 1. New Orleans would likely cut Winston if he doesn't agree to terms on a contract restructure, meaning he could still could opt to test his market as a free agent.

The Saints are expected to release Winston as a post-June 1 cut, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

New Orleans can save $12.8 million against the cap by releasing Winston, who was relegated to backup duties down the stretch of the 2022 campaign, after June 1. With the team expected to an official agreement with Derek Carr imminently, Winston is clearly an odd man out in the Saints' quarterback room. Meanwhile, Andy Dalton is scheduled to hit free agency, giving New Orleans a clear need at the No. 2 quarterback spot.

Over three games in the 2022 season, Winston went 73-for-115 passing for 858 yards and four touchdowns to five interceptions. He also recorded five rushes for 16 yards.

Winston finished his third season in New Orleans as the backup quarterback behind 35-year-old journeyman Andy Dalton. The 29-year-old initially took over the Saints' starting job for the first seven contests of the 2021 season before he suffered a torn ACL and sprained MCL in late October. Winston retained his starting job heading into the 2022 campaign, but he played through injury over the first three games after sustaining four fractures in his back Week 1. He was then inactive Weeks 4 and 5, allowing Dalton to take over and never let go of the Saints' No. 1 quarterback spot. Winston returned Week 6 and was listed as the team's No. 2 quarterback for the final 12 games, though he was never deemed 100 percent healthy by the Saints during this span. As a result, it's unclear how much this injury affected the team's decision to roll with Dalton as the starter. With Dalton now set to hit free agency and Winston entering the final season of a two-year, $28 million contract, there's little clarity as to how eithe

Coach Dennis Allen said Wednesday that Winston may not be 100 percent healthy at any point the rest of this season, Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Winston has been able to practice fully for weeks, but Allen continues to stick with Andy Dalton as the Saints' starting quarterback, even though the latter has compiled a 2-5 record in his nods this season. As such, Winston is poised to be the team's No. 2 and may not get a chance to regain the top spot on the depth chart without an absence from Dalton.

Coach Dennis Allen said Andy Dalton will start over Winston despite the Saints now considering the latter to be healthy, Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports.

It was unclear the past couple weeks to what extent, if any, Winston's back and ankle injuries had on Dalton being the starter. Whatever the case, Dalton is set for another start Sunday against the Raiders, while Winston will continue in the backup role. The question now is how long Dalton can keep the job before the Saints look to make another change.

Coach Dennis Allen said Monday that the Saints have yet to make a decision regarding who will start between Winston and Andy Dalton on Sunday against the Raiders, Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Winston has been active the last two games, but Dalton still started and logged most of the QB reps with the former available in case of emergency. Allen noted, "I do think Jameis is getting healthier. ... Both of those guys will have themselves ready to play." Winston hasn't practiced in full since Week 1 as he tended to a number of health concerns, including four small fractures in his back, an ankle issue and a hip flexor injury. Only the back and ankle injuries were noted on the team's Week 7 practice reports, but returning to all activity at some point this week may be the tell that Winston is ready to resume directing the offense.

Coach Dennis Allen confirmed Andy Dalton (back) as the Saints' starting quarterback Thursday in Arizona, ensuring Winston (back/ankle) will be the team's backup, Omar Ruiz of NFL Network reports.

While both Dalton and Winston exited Week 7 prep without injury designations, New Orleans will continue to hold off on reinstalling Winston in the starting lineup due to tending to four small fractures in his back, an ankle issue and a hip flexor injury already this season. Winston instead will serve as the No. 2 for a second consecutive contest, with his next chance to take over the top gig Sunday, Oct. 30 against the Raiders.

Winston (back/ankle) doesn't have a designation for Thursday's game at Arizona, but coach Dennis Allen has yet to name the Saints' starting quarterback between Winston and Andy Dalton (back), Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reports.

The Saints have listed Winston as limited on each of their last six injury reports, and while he'll be active for a second straight contest, it's unclear if he's healthy enough to usurp Dalton for the No. 1 role. Allen doesn't have to tip his hand at any point before Thursday's kickoff, but if Winston is deemed fit to start after missing three games due to four small fractures in his back and an ankle injury, he'll be doing so without wide receivers Michael Thomas (foot) and Jarvis Landry (ankle) and tight end Adam Trautman (ankle).

The Saints listed Winston (back/ankle) as a limited participant at Tuesday's practice.

Winston has appeared as a limited participant on each of the Saints' last five practice reports, but the team hasn't indicated that he's on track to reclaim starting quarterback duties. He made enough progress to dress as the backup to Andy Dalton in last weekend's loss to the Bengals, but Winston may have been available only in an emergency. Dalton is nursing a back injury of his own coming out of Week 6, but John Hendrix of SI.com notes that it was Dalton rather than Winston who took first-team reps under center during the open portion of Tuesday's practice. The Saints will likely wait until Wednesday to offer more clarity on Winston's role for the team's Week 7 matchup with the Cardinals on Thursday night, but the 28-year-old looks like he could be trending toward another week of backup duty while he continues to recover from his injuries.

Winston (back/ankle) was listed as a limited participant on Monday's estimated injury report, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Winston was active for Week 6, but he's still not 100 percent and operated as a backup to Andy Dalton (back). Per Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com, Winston won't be thrust into game action until he is back to full strength, so if Dalton is available, expect the veteran quarterback to continue drawing starts for New Orleans.

Winston (back/ankle) is still not 100 percent, Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports.

Despite being active for Week 6, Winston still isn't 100 percent and isn't expected to see the field until he is. New Orleans returns to action Thursday against Arizona, and while Winston may be active again, expect Andy Dalton to continue operating as the Saints' top signal caller, while Taysom Hill garners his usual swiss-army knife role.

Winston (back/ankle) is listed as active Sunday against the Bengals.

While Winston will be available for the first time since Week 3, he won't be leading the Saints offense Week 6 and instead will be Andy Dalton's backup in an emergency capacity. Winston's next chance to reclaim the starting role is this Thursday at Arizona, but Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported Sunday that Dalton may be able to keep the No. 1 gig with another steady performance this weekend. As a result, there's no telling when (or if) Winston will supersede Dalton, even after he's put four small fractures in his back and an ankle issue behind him.

Winston (back/ankle), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bengals, is scheduled to dress for the contest and serve as an emergency quarterback behind starter Andy Dalton, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Winston's return to action in a backup capacity was foreshadowed Saturday, when the Saints waived No. 3 quarterback Jake Luton. The 28-year-old was a limited participant in practice throughout the week, but the Saints seemingly have hope that Winston may heal up enough to reclaim the starting role Week 7 in Arizona in a Thursday night game. Even if Winston avoids the inactive list ahead of Sunday's contest as expected, he may not be pressed into duty if Dalton is forced to exit early. The Saints would still have the versatile Taysom Hill on hand to take reps under center if the team would rather not expose Winston to further injury.

Winston (back/ankle) won't start Sunday's game against the Saints but may be active, with the Saints listing him as questionable on the final injury report, Luke Johnson of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

It's an upgrade after Winston was listed as doubtful last week and ultimately made inactive. Andy Dalton is set for another start, with Taysom Hill likely poaching some direct snaps in key spots. Winston seems to be making progress and could be back as the starter as soon as a Thursday game against the Cardinals in Week 7.

Winston (back/ankle) was limited at Thursday's practice.

For a second consecutive day, Winston had a cap on his reps, but it's far more activity than he logged before he didn't play Weeks 4 and 5. Still, he seems to be inhibited by four small fractures in his back and an ankle issue. Ultimately, Winston's listing on Friday's practice report will be telling for his ability to return Sunday against the Bengals.

Winston (back/ankle) practiced in a limited fashion Wednesday.

Winston officially is listed with the same injuries as last week, but he's clearly making progress in his recovery from four small fractures in his back and an ankle issue. He has a pair of opportunities to get back to all activity this week before the Saints potentially give him a designation for Sunday's game against the Bengals. Friday's practice report will be telling for Winston's availability.

Winston (back/ankle) returned to practice Wednesday, Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Winston sat out the Saints' last two games as he tended to a number of injuries, including four small fractures in his back and an ankle concern. While he may be limited in his first practice since Week 3 prep, it's a step in the right direction as the team prepares for Sunday's matchup with the Bengals. As for the receiving corps, Michael Thomas (foot) and Jarvis Landry (ankle) weren't spotted on the field Wednesday, so Winston may not have some of his top targets this weekend, assuming he makes it all the way back.

Winston (back/ankle) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Seahawks.

Though Winston has seemingly moved past a hip flexor injury, he'll end up missing his second straight game while he recovers from four small fractures in his back in addition to a back issue. Andy Dalton will pick up another start in place of Winston, who will turn his focus toward getting ready for the Saints' Week 6 matchup with the Bengals. Jake Luton and Taysom Hill are both active as backup options behind Dalton.

Winston (back/ankle) will be listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against Seattle, while Andy Dalton will start, Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reports.

The Saints are leaving the door open for Winston to be active in a backup role. He's not a Week 5 fantasy option, missing out on a friendly matchup against a Seahawks team that's been much better than expected on offense and even worse than expected on defense.

Winston (back/ankle) didn't practice Thursday, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Winston has yet to practice since playing all 64 offensive snaps Week 3 at Carolina, when he tossed for a season-high 353 yards. Since then, rehab has been his focus as he recovers from four small fractures in his back and an ankle injury. It's unclear if Winston has a chance to suit up Sunday versus the Seahawks, but the Saints will turn to Andy Dalton under center if the former is forced to miss a second game in a row this weekend.

Winston (back/ankle/hip) was unable to practice Wednesday, instead focusing on rehab, Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports. "We're just trying to get him healthy," coach Dennis Allen said.

After playing through the pain the first three games of the season, Winston took a seat this past Sunday against the Vikings in London, yielding quarterback duties to Andy Dalton. Winston's current medical chart includes four small fractures in his back, an ankle issue and a hip flexor injury, so it's unclear when exactly he may be able to mix into drills, let alone be cleared for game action. Dalton again will be the next QB up if Winston needs to sit Sunday against the Seahawks.

Winston (back/ankle/hip) has been downgraded to out ahead of Sunday's London matchup against the Vikings, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

It would have been truly surprising to see Winston be ruled active for Sunday's contest against the Vikings, but Saturday's announcement does take any sort of guesswork out of fantasy managers' hands. Andy Dalton will get the start and will be without one of his top targets in Michael Thomas (foot).

Coach Dennis Allen said Friday that Winston (back/ankle/hip) is doubtful for Sunday's game against Minnesota, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Winston has missed three straight practices while dealing with a trio of injuries, and it appears that Andy Dalton is trending towards starting versus the Vikings, while Taysom Hill (ribs) would act as his backup. With Michael Thomas (foot) already ruled out, it will fall to Chris Olave and Jarvis Landry (ankle) to work as the Saints' top wideouts, while Alvin Kamara (ribs) could also see expanded opportunities as a receiver.

Winston (back/ankle/hip) is not present at the start of Friday's practice, Rod Walker of The Times-Picayune reports.

Winston and Michael Thomas (foot) both appear to be missing their third straight practice sessions, which doesn't provide optimism for either's chances of suiting up Sunday Versus Minnesota. The Saints' official injury report Friday will provide Winston with an official game designation, but if he can't go Andy Dalton will be in line to start after a full week of taking first-team reps. Winston is recovering from ankle and hip injuries, in addition to dealing with four fractures in his back.

Offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael confirmed that Winston (back/ankle/hip) didn't participate in Thursday's practice, but he's hopeful the quarterback will be on the field Friday, Erin Summers of the Saints' official site reports.

After Winston was withheld from the Saints' first practice Wednesday in London, head coach Dennis Allen expressed optimism that the quarterback would take some reps Thursday, but that ultimately didn't come to fruition. Carmichael noted that the Saints' plans for Winston changed later Wednesday, and the back-to-back absences of practice to begin the week suddenly puts the 28-year-old's status for Sunday's game against the Vikings more in question than originally believed. Andy Dalton once again took first-team reps Thursday and would be in line to start Sunday if Winston is unable to play through his injuries. In addition to dealing with four fractures in his back, Winston is still battling an ankle issue that cropped up following Week 2 action along with a hip flexor injury.

Winston (back/ankle/hip) is not present at the portion of Thursday's practice open to the media, Stacey Dales of NFL Network reports.

Winston appears to be missing a second straight practice session, and he told reporters Thursday that he's nursing a hip flexor injury in addition to his previously disclosed back and ankle issues, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports. Coach Dennis Allen and Winston have both expressed that they expect the No. 1 quarterback to be available Sunday vs. Minnesota, but it remains to be seen whether his absence Thursday represents a setback. Luke Johnson of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that it was expected Winston would practice in some capacity Thursday.

Winston (back/ankle) said he's preparing to play Sunday against the Vikings despite missing practice Wednesday, Luke Johnson of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

Winston suffered four small fractures in his back Week 1 and added an ankle injury Week 2, but he's so far been able to play through both injuries, albeit at something less than his best (it doesn't help that he's also coming back from an ACL tear last year). Both Winston and coach Dennis Allen said they expect the QB to start this Sunday in London, with Winston reportedly expected back on the practice field Thursday. Andy Dalton took first-team reps Wednesday.

Winston (back/ankle) was not spotted at Wednesday's practice, Stacey Dales of NFL Network reports.

Winston appears to be beginning the week as a 'DNP' after having played through back and ankle injuries during Sunday's loss to Carolina. Michael Thomas (toe) is also not present at the start of Wednesday's practice, New Orleans' first session in London. Andy Dalton will handle first-team reps in Winston's stead, while it will fall to Taysom Hill to take second-team reps.

Winston (back/ankle) completed 25 of 41 passes for 353 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in Sunday's 22-14 loss to Carolina. He added five rushing yards on two attempts.

Winston has looked hindered by his injuries over the past two games, as he failed to lead the Saints to any points in the first half before accumulating plenty of second-half yardage as New Orleans went pass-heavy while playing catch-up. Winston's four-yard touchdown pass to Marquez Callaway with 2:22 remaining made it a one-possession game, but his fifth interception in the last two games dashed any hopes of a New Orleans comeback. He'll bring an uninspiring 4:5 TD:INT across the pond for the Saints' Week 4 game against the Vikings in London.

Winston (back/ankle) is active for Sunday's game at Carolina, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Winston has suffered injuries in both contests this season, including four small fractures in his back Week 1 in Atlanta and an ankle issue last Sunday against the Buccaneers. Predictably, he was limited at practice Wednesday through Friday, but he'll continue to gut through what's deemed to be a "painful" issue, per Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com. On the campaign, Winston has completed 65 percent of his passes for 505 yards, three touchdowns and three interceptions.

Winston (back/ankle) is expected to suit up for Sunday's game against Carolina, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Winston played through fractures in his back during the Saints' loss against the Buccaneers in Week 2, and he's expected to suit up again despite now also nursing an ankle issue. The quarterback practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday through Friday, and Winston is now expected to avoid an appearance on New Orleans' inactive list, which will be released ahead of Sunday's 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff.

Winston (back/ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Carolina, Luke Johnson of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

Winston played through the back injury last week, though not particularly well, in a 20-10 loss to Tampa Bay. He'll likely play again even after adding an ankle issue, but fantasy managers should consider that he may not be at his best while dealing with four small fractures in his back and now a minor lower-body injury as well. Winston was a limited practice participant Wednesday through Friday.

Winston (back/ankle) was a limited practice participant Thursday.

Coach Dennis Allen told John Hendrix of SI.com on Wednesday that Winston would have a cap on his reps during Week 3 prep. Indeed, that so far has come to pass, but Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football noted Thursday that Winston seemed to be doing more work than he did one day prior. Winston currently is playing through four fractures in his back -- per Jay Glazer of Fox Sports -- and an ankle issue, so there's a decent chance he enters the weekend with a designation. The preceding will become known upon the release of Friday's practice report.

Coach Dennis Allen said Wednesday that Winston (back/ankle) will have a cap on his reps during Week 3 prep, John Hendrix of SI.com reports.

This comes as no surprise, as Jay Glazer of Fox Sports reported before this past Sunday's game versus the Buccaneers that Winston is playing through four fractures in his back. Winston proceeded to complete 25 of 40 passes for 236 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions in the eventual 20-10 loss. He'll go down as a limited participant Wednesday and likely for the other two official practices of Week 3 as well.

Winston completed 25 of 40 passes for 236 yards with one touchdown and three interceptions in the Saints' 20-10 loss to the Buccaneers on Sunday. He also rushed once for two yards and committed a fumble that was recovered by New Orleans.

A pregame report indicated Winston is playing through multiple back fractures, and that seemed to be borne out in his lackluster performance. The 2015 first overall pick of the Buccaneers was victimized by his former team as the game went on, taking a whopping six sacks and seeing one of his three interceptions returned for what was essentially a game-clinching touchdown late in the fourth quarter. Winston salvaged his fantasy day to an extent with a seven-yard touchdown toss to Michael Thomas with 3:02 remaining, but given questions about his health, his status for a Week 3 divisional road clash against the Panthers and beyond remains to be seen.

Winston, who is active for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers, will be playing despite having been diagnosed with four fractures in his back, Jay Glazer of Fox Sports reports.

Though Winston was limited in practices throughout the week and was listed as questionable heading into Sunday, he'll be able to tough it out and play through the issue by donning some extra padding on his back. The injury may be something that lingers for a few more weeks and gradually improves as the season goes along, but Winston should be available on game days so long as he can tolerate the pain.

Winston (back) is active for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Winston will gut out the back issue that capped his practice reps throughout Week 2 prep. While he's suiting up, his top running back Alvin Kamara won't be, leaving the backfield to the likes of Mark Ingram (ankle) and Dwayne Washington (hamstring). The Saints thus may roll with a more pass-heavy game plan, especially with Tom Brady and company on the other side. In the season opener in Atlanta last Sunday, Winston completed 23 of 34 passes for 269 yards and two touchdowns.

Winston (back) remains questionable but is expected to play Sunday against the Buccaneers, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Luke Johnson of The New Orleans Times-Picayune also said Winston would likely be able to play Friday, so it appears the 2015 first-round pick will be suiting up Sunday against his former team despite being limited at practices throughout the week. New Orleans' running back situation likely won't be decided until closer to the 1 p.m. ET kick off, but Alvin Kamara, who was a non-participant Thursday and Friday, appears to be the most in danger of missing Sunday's game. Assuming Winston is available, he'll still have a nice crew to work with, thanks to wideouts Michael Thomas, Jarvis Landry and Chris Olave.

Winston (back) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Tampa Bay, but he should be able to play, Luke Johnson of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

Winston managed limited practices throughout the week, as did backup RB Mark Ingram (ankle). Alvin Kamara (ribs), on the other hand, was a non-participant Thursday and Friday, making him the key offensive piece most in danger of missing Sunday's game. Winston would still have a nice crew to work with, thanks to wide receivers Michael Thomas, Jarvis Landry and Chris Olave.

Winston (back) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday.

A sore back was one of the residual impacts of the Saints' Week 1 win in Atlanta for Winston, who so far has logged back-to-back capped sessions this week. Still, coach Dennis Allen told Erin Summers of the team's official site Wednesday that Winston "looked pretty good," and the quarterback sustained his activity level Thursday. Winston has one more chance Friday to potentially return to a full session, after which New Orleans may give him a designation for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers.

Winston (back) was a limited practice participant Wednesday.

Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports that Winston played through some pain in Sunday's 27-26 win over Atlanta, and coach Dennis Allen said the quarterback "looked pretty good" during Wednesday's practice, per Erin Summers of the Saints' official website. It sounds like Winston should be okay for the Week 2 matchup with Tampa Bay, though a full practice Thursday or Friday would erase any concerns.

Winston completed 23 of 34 passes for 269 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions in the Saints' 27-26 win over the Falcons on Sunday. He also rushed twice for nine yards and threw a two-point conversion pass.

Winston slogged through a sluggish first half that ended with the Saints down by a 16-7 score. However, the 2015 first overall pick came alive following intermission, throwing for 212 yards while leading New Orleans to 20 second-half points and the narrow win. Winston ultimately enjoyed his most prolific connection with Jarvis Landry, who he hit on seven occasions for 114 yards. However, the story of the day, and the comeback, may have been the play of Michael Thomas, who brought in both of Winston's touchdown passes in his first game action since January 2021. Given the momentum he generated over the final two quarters, Winston fantasy managers have to be feeling much better than earlier in the day as he gets set to face his old Buccaneers squad in a Week 2 home matchup next Sunday.

Winston (knee/foot) completed all four of his passes for 59 yards in Friday's 27-10 preseason win over the Chargers.

Winston started the preseason finale, showing that he's ready for live game reps after tearing his ACL last October. He only played one drive, but WInston was sharp in limited action, hitting Jarvis Landry for gains of 20 and 15 yards before adding a 19-yard completion to rookie Chris Olave and a five-yard pass to Alvin Kamara. The possession ultimately culminated in a one-yard Mark Ingram rushing touchdown. Along with the playmakers at his disposal in this one, Winston should also have star wide receiver Michael Thomas (hamstring) available as a target in the regular season.

Winston (knee/foot) is expected to play in Friday's preseason finale against the Chargers, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports.

Winston has not seen game action since he suffered a torn ACL in Week 8 of the 2021 season, but he's been practicing leading up to Friday's tilt and is now poised to see some preseason snaps. Though we'd expect him to log an abbreviated appearance versus the Chargers, it's clear that Winston is on track to play in Week 1 against Atlanta, barring any setbacks.

Winston (knee/foot) said Wednesday that he's "feeling better every day" and will be ready to play if the Saints want him on the field for Friday's preseason finale against the Chargers, ESPN.com's Katherine Terrell reports.

Coach Dennis Allen hasn't said who will play Friday, but either way, Winston appears on track for Week 1 against Atlanta. He's been practicing since OTAs after suffering an ACL tear last year, with the recent absences due to a relatively minor foot injury. Winston returned to practice Sunday and has avoided any setbacks so far.

Winston (knee/foot) participated in 11-on-11 drills during Monday's practice, Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports.

The report notes that Winston didn't participate in the Saints' two-minute drill at the end of the session, but the quarterback -- who is bouncing back from a torn left ACL suffered Week 8 last season -- continues to make progress and is trending toward a Week 1 start, barring any setbacks. As for the possibility of Winston appearing in the Saints' preseason finale Friday against the Chargers, coach Dennis Allen said "we'll see," Mike Triplett of ESPN.com reports.

Winston (knee/foot) participated in practice Sunday, Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports.

Winston, who is bouncing back from the ACL tear in his left knee that cut short his 2021 campaign, had been dealing with a foot sprain, but he was able to work in 7-on-7 drills Sunday. It remains to be seen if the QB is a candidate to see action in the Saints' preseason finale, but barring any setbacks, Winston is trending toward a Week 1 start for the team.

Winston (knee/foot) won't play in Friday's preseason game against the Packers, Sean Fazende of FOX 8 reports.

Winston has been dealing with a foot sprain on top of coming back from last year's ACL tear. He was held out of the preseason opener but could get a look in the Saints' final preseason game next week. Expect Andy Dalton to start against Green Bay on Friday.

Coach Dennis Allen said Tuesday that Winston (knee/foot) is day-to-day, James Palmer of NFL Network reports.

Allen also revealed that the injury sustained by Winston during Monday's practice is a sprained foot. Winston, who is also in the later stages of recovering from a left ACL tear, has already been ruled out for Saturday's preseason opener against the Texans, which leaves Andy Dalton primed to lead the first-team offense. It remains to be seen when Winston will be cleared to return to game action, considering that the Saints could be cautious in easing him back, but it's a relief to see that the 28-year-old has at least avoided a serious injury.

Winston (knee/foot) is believed to have avoided a serious injury but won't suit up for Saturday's preseason opener against the Texans, Jeff Duncan of The Athletic reports.

Winston suffered a foot injury during Monday's practice and is expected to miss a few days of practice, but it appears that he's managed to sidestep a serious issue. His next chance to suit up for preseason action will come August 19 in Green Bay. Winston is in the late stages of rehabbing from a torn left ACL suffered Week 8 last season, so the Saints could opt for caution. In the meantime, Andy Dalton stands to helm the first-team offense.

Winston (knee) sustained a foot injury at Monday's practice, Luke Johnson of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

Initially, coach Dennis Allen noted Winston "rolled his ankle," resulting in an early exit from the session, per Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com. But both Johnson and Jane Slater of NFL Network received confirmation after the fact that Winston is tending to a foot issue. Winston is in the later stages of his recovery from a torn ACL and MCL in his left knee that he suffered Week 8 of last season, so the Saints may exercise utmost caution while he recovers from the current concern. If Winston is sidelined for any length of time, Andy Dalton is on hand to handle to reps with the first-team offense.

Coach Dennis Allen indicated that Winston "rolled his ankle" during Monday's practice, Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports.

Winston is bouncing back from a torn ACL that he suffered in Week 8 last season, but so far there's nothing to suggest that the Monday's issue is related to his prior injury. Per Adam Schefter of ESPN, the QB is slated to undergo further evaluation on his ankle and if Winston is forced to miss any time, Andy Dalton is next up for first-team reps.

Coach Dennis Allen indicated that Winston (knee) will participate in team drills when the Saints begin training camp, Katherine Terrell of ESPN reports.

Winston has shown signs of progress in his recovery from knee surgery throughout the offseason, but this is his biggest step yet. Given how far along Winston's rehab is in July, he'll almost certainly be ready to start for the Saints when the regular season begins in September barring a setback.

Winston (knee) posted a video showing himself throwing without a left knee brace on his official Instagram account Tuesday, Jeremy Bergman of NFL.com reports.

Winston, who is working his way back from a left ACL tear and MCL damage, can be seen in the Instagram video handling some throwing drills without a brace on his surgically repaired left knee. While participating in OTAs with teammates earlier this summer Winston did wear a brace, but now eight months removed from the initial injury, he appears to have cleared another hurdle in the rehab process. Winston may still have some limitations when training camp kicks off July 26, but he appears to be trending toward Week 1 availability.

Winston (knee) participated in OTAs on Wednesday, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Winston appears to have gone through drills alongside fellow quarterbacks Andy Dalton and Ian Book. It's a good sign Winston is on track for Week 1, which is in line with what Saints coach Dennis Allen said a few weeks ago. Still, it's no easy thing coming back from an ACL tear, so Winston figure to have limitations on the practice field throughout spring and summer.

Coach Dennis Allen said Friday "the plan" is for Winston (knee) to start Week 1, Rod Walker of The Times-Picayune reports.

Allen noted that there are still "a lot of days between now and Week 1," but that "we certainly like where [Winston] is right now" as the quarterback works his way back from a left ACL tear. Winston has already begun rehabbing from surgery undergone last November, and while his real recovery progress may not be made apparent until he begins taking reps in offseason workouts, it currently looks like the 28-year-old is on track to open the season. New Orleans' offense could take a step forward in the 2022 campaign, with two first-round rookies joining the fold. Left tackle Trevor Penning will help keep Winston upright following the departure of Terron Armstead (knee), while former Ohio State standout Chris Olave provides another legitimate option in the passing game alongside presumed top target Michael Thomas (ankle).

Winston indicated Monday that he's "ahead of schedule" in his recovery from a torn ACL.

The QB, who the Saints re-signed to a two year deal last week, added that he'll be back "well before training camp." Winston is bouncing back from knee surgery that he underwent in mid-November, but with his recovery evidently progressing well, the 28-year-old is trending toward being ready for Week 1 action. While it remains to be seen exactly when Winston will be able to practice fully, his 2022 fantasy prospects are bolstered by the fact that top target Michael Thomas (ankle) is on track to re-join the team's wideout mix after missing last season, as well as the return to the fold of Tre'Quan Smith, who re-upped with New Orleans on Monday.

Winston (knee) is signing a two-year contract with the Saints, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

It's a better contract than the one Winston signed last offseason, with Pelissero reporting a base value of $28 million, including $21 million guaranteed. That suggests other teams were interested, despite Winston's ongoing recovery from the ACL tear he suffered Oct. 31. The 28-year-old QB had surgery in mid-November, so while he may not be available for spring practices, the Saints presumably expect him to be ready to start in advance of Week 1.

Winston (knee) has progressed to running on an anti-gravity treadmill per the Instagram account of physical therapist Kevin Wilk.

Winston was shown going through agility ladders last week, and Monday marks his first day of running in any capacity since tearing his ACL last November. While it's still hard to guess when he could be cleared for on-field football activities, it doesn't seem like Winston's recovery could be going any better. That's great news for the impending free agent who is expected to open contract negotiations with New Orleans in the near future, according to Jim Trotter of NFL Media.

Winston's doctor shared a video Thursday featuring the quarterback throwing a football without any visible limitations for the first time since undergoing surgery last month to repair a torn ACL and a damaged MCL in his left knee, Luke Johnson of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports. "Jameis is looking great [and] progressing extremely well in his recovery following knee surgery," Dr. Kevin Wilk wrote in the caption for the video. "He's ahead of schedule [and] we have to hold him back at times!"

Winston's ability to run at full speed in a straight line and change direction without any discomfort at some point down the road will ultimately provide a better indication that he's 100 percent following surgery, but the fact that he's walking around without the aid of crutches and taking part in some football-related activities is a good early sign for his rehab. The 27-year-old, who will be a free agent at season's end, likely won't be fully healed for the start of OTAs, but he appears as though he's on the right track toward being available for Week 1 of the 2022 season, if not sooner than that.

The surgery Winston underwent on his left knee last week in Los Angeles involved no repair of his MCL and was solely to address a torn ACL, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

In addition to the torn ACL, Winston was diagnosed with associated MCL damage after suffering the season-ending knee injury in an Oct. 31 win over the Buccaneers. Though Winston's procedure was believed to have address both ligaments, Dr. Neal ElAttrache and his team medical determined that the quarterback's MCL would heal on its own without a repair being necessary. With one fewer complication to worry about as he rehabs the knee, Winston is projected to be ready for full-contact drills in about six months. That timeline puts him on track to miss OTAs, but Winston should be at close to 100 percent by the time NFL training camps begin in late July. The 27-year-old will become a free agent this spring after he completed 59 percent of his passes for 7.3 yards per attempt and a 14:3 TD:INT in the Saints' first seven games prior to sustaining the knee injury.

Winston (knee) underwent successful surgery Friday, Jeff Duncan of The Athletic reports.

Winston tore his ACL and sustained MCL damage at the end of October, and he'll now shift his focus toward his lengthy recovery process. Whether he's available for training camp in 2022 remains to be seen, but Trevor Siemian has taken over as the Saints' starter for now.

Winston (knee) was placed on injured reserve Saturday, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.

This was simply a procedural move after it was announced Winston had indeed torn his ACL in the divisional win over the Buccaneers last Sunday. Trevor Siemian is slated to start this week against the Falcons, though Taysom Hill also looms in the background as a possible option should the Northwestern product struggle to produce.

Coach Sean Payton confirmed Monday that Winston suffered a torn ACL on Sunday.

Winston also sustained damage to his MCL in Sunday's win over Tampa Bay, and he'll miss the remainder of the season as a result. Payton declined to name a starting quarterback Monday, but Taysom Hill (concussion) is presumably in line for starting duties once he's cleared to return. However, Trevor Siemian will likely take on a starting role if Hill remains sidelined.

Winston suffered a torn ACL in Sunday's win over the Buccaneers, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

The report adds that Winston also suffered damage to his MCL and will be out for the season. As a result, Taysom Hill is presumably next in line for the team's QB snaps once he returns from a concussion, but for now Trevor Siemian profiles as New Orleans' top healthy signal-caller.

Head coach Sean Payton, via NOLA.com, said following Sunday's victory over the Buccaneers that he believes Winston is dealing with a "significant" injury.

Payton was asked about Winton's injury in his postgame press conference, and he responded, "I think it's significant. He felt something. He's on crutches right now. I don't want to say until I have a chance to talk to the doctors." Like Payton said, the extent of Winston's injury won't be known until he undergoes more tests, but it certainly did not look good and he could be facing an extended absence. If that turns out to be the case, Taysom Hill would be the favorite to step in, but Hill is recovering from a concussion and Trevor Siemian did do enough Sunday to be part of the conversation.

Winston (knee) won't return to Sunday's game versus the Buccaneers, John Hendrix of SI.com reports.

The announcement comes as no surprise given how Winston's left leg bent awkwardly as he was tackled at the end of a three-yard run. Now that he's ruled out, he'll officially come out of Week 8 with 56 passing yards and one touchdown to go with four carries for 40 yards. In Winston's stead, the Saints will turn to Trevor Siemian under center, as Taysom Hill currently is in the concussion protocol and rookie fourth-rounder Ian Book has been a weekly healthy scratch so far this season.

WInston suffered a knee injury during Sunday's game against the Buccaneers, Katherine Terrell of The Athletic reports.

While getting taken down by the Bucs' Devin White at the end of a three-yard run, Winston's left leg bent a way that wasn't intended. Winston attempted to get back to the huddle but fell to the turf before needing assistance to get to the sideline. After an evaluation in the sideline tent, he eventually was carted to the locker room, where the nature of the injury was revealed. It's unclear if Winston will be able to return, but Trevor Siemian will direct the Saints offense with Taysom Hill (concussion) and rookie Ian Book (coach's decision) inactive.

Trevor Siemian entered Sunday's game against the Buccaneers after Winston appeared to suffer a leg injury, Mike Triplett of ESPN.com reports.

After Winston limped off the field, Siemian entered Sunday's contest, with Taysom Hill (concussion) unavailable and Ian Book inactive. An official announcement regarding the nature of Winston's injury should arrive soon, but we do know that the QB headed to the locker room on a cart to be evaluated.

Winston completed 19 of 35 passes for 222 yards and a touchdown in Monday's 13-10 win over the Seahawks. He added 40 yards on eight rushing attempts.

Winston kept his composure after dropping the snap on his lone touchdown of the night, calmly retrieving the ball before turning his eyes downfield toward Alvin Kamara, who took Winston's pass 13 yards to the house to give New Orleans a 10-7 lead with 47 seconds left before halftime. Kamara was Winston's favorite target throughout, accounting for more than half of the quarterback's completions (10) and passing yards (128). Some of Winston's struggles in this one can be blamed on rainy conditions, but he'll need to play better to give the Saints a chance in Week 8, when Winston's former team from Tampa Bay pays a visit to New Orleans.

Winston completed 17 of 23 passes for 226 yards and one touchdown during Sunday's 27-21 overtime loss to the Giants.

Winston had a decent day as a passer but his 23 pass attempts were somehow a season-high in the Saints' low-volume pass attack. As long as Taysom Hill keeps getting swapped into the game during red-zone situations, fantasy managers will continue to need Winston to throw multiple touchdowns in any given game for him to be pay off as a starting fantasy option. Working in Winston's favor in Week 5 is the fact that Washington's disappointing defense has surrendered 10 passing scores through four weeks.

Winston completed 13 of 21 pass attempts for 128 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 28-13 win over the Patriots.

Winston now has seven touchdowns to two interceptions, with both picks coming in a forgettable Week 2 loss to the Panthers. Head coach Sean Payton clearly has put a suppressor on the cannon-armed quarterback in an effort to limit turnovers -- and it has mostly worked -- but it has resulted in the former 4,000-yard passer to be limited to 129 passing yards per game this year. Winston will be unable to help many fantasy managers with such low volume, as the five touchdowns from Week 1 will likely end up being an anomaly. For those forced to rely on the quarterback, a favorable matchup against the Giants is on tap for Week 4.

Winston completed 11 of 22 passes for 111 yards and two interceptions while rushing for 19 yards and a touchdown on three carries in Sunday's 26-7 loss to the Panthers.

Good as Winston and the Saints looked in Week 1, they looked just as bad in Week 2, as the former Tampa Bay quarterback tossed a couple of very ugly picks and got sacked four times. The COVID-19 breakout among the Saints' coaching staff may have played a big part in the team's generally sloppy play, but Winston has shown in the past he's more than capable of making bad decisions without anyone else's help. New Orleans will look to regroup in Week 3 on the road against a tough New England defense.

Winston completed 14 of 20 passes for 148 yards and five touchdowns while rushing six times for 37 yards during Sunday's 38-3 victory over Green Bay.

If one game is any indication, it seems like the Saints made the right choice in going with Winston over Taysom Hill at quarterback. While he certainly won't be throwing a touchdown every four passes going forward, Winston was mobile in the pocket and rarely made any of the overly aggressive decisions that seemed to be his trademark during his time in Tampa Bay. He also showed decent accuracy after never topping a 65 percent completion rate in any of his five seasons with the Bucs. As Hill's three touches largely put to bed any concerns of a full-blown quarterback by committee, Winston looks like a serviceable fantasy option on the road in Week 2 against Carolina.

Winston and the Saints will have their Week 1 game against the Packers moved to a location outside New Orleans, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

After their final exhibition contest was canceled, the Saints now have to scramble to find a location for their season opener against Green Bay in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida. It equates to a slight matchup downgrade for Winston and others, especially if the new location isn't indoors. Coach Sean Payton confirmed Tuesday morning that he's named Winston as his Week 1 starter over Taysom Hill, per Mike Triplett of ESPN.com.

Winston has been named the Saints' starter for Week 1 against the Packers, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

After a lengthy quarterback battle with Taysom Hill, it will be Winston as Drew Brees' successor in New Orleans. Winston has been sharp all preseason and was particularly impressive Monday against the Jaguars, completing nine of 10 passes for 123 yards and two touchdowns. He will open the season as the starter, though Taysom Hill could still have a role in the offense.

Winston has been named the Saints' starter for Week 1 against the Packers, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

After a lengthy quarterback battle with Taysom Hill, it will be Winston as Drew Brees' successor in New Orleans. Winston has been sharp all preseason and was particularly impressive Monday against the Jaguars, completing nine of 10 passes for 123 yards and two touchdowns. He will open the season as the starter, though Taysom Hill could still have a role in the offense.

Winston is ahead of Taysom Hill in the competition to be the Saints' starting quarterback, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. "It's very clear to me that Jameis Winston is the leader in the clubhouse," Rapoport said Tuesday.

Winston put together an impressive showing Monday against the Jaguars, tossing touchdowns on two of his three drives. Specifically, the 43-yard TD to Marquez Callaway was referenced by Rapoport as a throw "that (Drew) Brees has not made in many, many years." Overall, Winston is a combined 16-for-22 for 219 yards, three touchdowns and one interception through two preseason games. As for Hill, he's been a bit more uneven during exhibition season. If Winston ultimately wins the job, he still may have to yield the occasional gadget play to Hill, as Brees did before him the past few campaigns.

Winston completed 9 of 10 passes for 123 yards and two touchdowns in Monday night's 23-21 preseason win over the Jaguars.

Winston started and was superb on his three drives, throwing a pair of perfectly placed touchdowns. He opened the scoring with a 43-yard bomb to Marquez Callaway, then hit Callaway again for a 29-yard score on his final throw of the night. In doing so, Winston put together a strong case to finally be named the Saints' starting quarterback over Taysom Hill, who completed 11 of 20 attempts for 138 yards and a touchdown of his own. With Sean Payton reportedly hoping to name his starter before Saturday's exhibition finale versus the Cardinals, Winston could be in store for good news sometime soon.

Head coach Sean Payton hopes to name a starting quarterback before the preseason finale Aug. 28 against Arizona, Amie Just of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

Taysom Hill started the preseason opener last week against Baltimore and Winston will get his chance Monday night against Jacksonville. While neither has separated himself as the clear-cut frontrunner up to this point, Winston led two TD drives in five possessions during last week's exhibition game while Hill didn't lead the team to any points over three of his own drives. A respectable performance with the first-team offense Monday could make Winston the heavy favorite to come away with the starting nod -- at least for Week 1 -- though there is also speculation that Winston could be given the job if for no other reason than to keep Hill available for the gadget plays he's become famous for.

Coach Sean Payton said Friday that Winston will start Monday's preseason game against the Jaguars, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.

After coming off the sideline in relief of Taysom Hill in preseason Week 1, Winston will get the starting nod in the Saints' second exhibition. In last Saturday's game at Baltimore, Winston fared better in the box score and in the scoring column, leading New Orleans to two TDs in five possession, while Hill managed no points in three drives. With more first stringers (Alvin Kamara, for example) expected to play Monday, Winston may be working with close to the expected Week 1 starting lineup from the first snap.

Winston completed seven of 12 passes for 96 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Saturday's 17-14 preseason loss to the Ravens.

Winston played the last five possessions of the first half after Taysom Hill got the first three. Each quarterback had an interception, but Wintson also led two touchdown drives -- the second of which he capped with an eight-yard pass to Lil'Jordan Humphrey in the two-minute drill -- while Hill failed to deliver any points. It's possible Winston will get the opportunity to start against Jacksonville's first-team defense in Week 2 of preseason, but the quarterback competition between him and Hill remains far from settled.

Winston practiced with the first-team offense Saturday, Mike Triplett of ESPN reports.

Head coach Sean Payton seems to be keeping his word that both Winston and Taysom Hill will rotate practices with the first-team offense. While Hill practiced with the starters for the first two days of training camp, Winston had those honors Saturday and the 27-year-old has reportedly impressed Saints offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael Jr., who deemed Winston a "quick study." However, there remains no substantial evidence to suggest either Winston or Hill is in the lead for the starting job and it's possible that won't change until the end of the preseason.

While Winston opened training camp with the second-team offense, head coach Sean Payton indicated after practice that Winston and Taysom Hill will rotate with the first-team offense throughout training camp, Luke Johnson of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

It's possible that Hill's long-standing tenure with New Orleans played a role in him opening training camp with the starters. As both he and Winston should get plenty of reps with the first-team offense as the summer unfolds, fantasy managers need to keep tabs on who is favored to open Week 1 in the starting lineup given the contrasting styles of play between the two quarterbacks. Case in point: All but one of Hill's throws seemed to travel more than eight yards during Thursday's practice, while Winston sent one deep on his very first pass attempt in team drills and he reportedly finished the day with a number of impressive completions on deep passes, including a 60-yard touchdown to Deonte Harris.

Winston seems like the odds-on favorite to win the starting quarterback job over Taysom Hill this summer, Larry Holder of The Athletic reports.

Even though the Saints turned to Hill as the starter last season when Drew Brees went down, Hill had been in New Orleans since 2017 while Winston had only been there for a matter of months. Now that Winston has considerably more experience in Sean Payton's system, it appears the 2015 No. 1 overall pick and true pocket passer is being viewed as the better long-term option for New Orleans to build around than the dual-threat Hill. However, the Saints aren't practicing on-field like most other teams during OTAs this year, per Amie Just of NOLA.com, so no one has actually seen anything to confirm that Winston is being geared up as the clear starter. We should know more in late July when the Saints start training camp.

Winston agreed to re-sign with the Saints on Monday, Shams Charania of The Athletic reports.

Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that Winston's contract is a one-year deal worth up to $12 million. The 2015 first-overall pick's second season in coach Sean Payton's system will come after Drew Brees' retirement, giving Winston a clear path to compete for the No. 1 spot in one of the league's most lethal offenses. Taysom Hill is the other notable signal-caller under contract in New Orleans, setting the stage for a training camp battle between two highly intriguing fantasy options.

The Saints are trying to re-sign Winston, who would then enter a job battle with Taysom Hill during training camp, Dianna Russini of ESPN reports.

If the two sides can't work it out, Winston will become a free agent at 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday. He could still re-sign with New Orleans after that point, but the Saints would be taking a risk. If Winston were to leave, It isn't clear if the Saints would hand Hill the starting job or bring in another QB to compete with him this summer.

Coach Sean Payton hopes Winston will re-sign with the Saints, Mike Triplett of ESPN.com reports.

Drew Brees is expected to retire, while Taysom Hill is under contract through 2021 with a cap hit of $16.2 million. The Saints chose Hill over Winston when Brees missed time during the 2020 regular season, but it sounds like Payton will give Winston a fair shot to win the starting job if he stays in New Orleans. Of course, the 27-year-old QB might find a better contract or job opportunity elsewhere, as the Saints will need to do some cap gymnastics to become compliant for 2021.

Jameis Winston completed his only pass attempt for a 56-yard touchdown in the Saints' 30-20 loss to the Buccaneers on Sunday.

Winston came in for one play mid-way through the second quarter and found a wide-open Tre'Quan Smith for a 56-yard score. Winston's future is uncertain in New Orleans, especially with rumors of Drew Brees' retirement floating around. Even if Brees does decide to call it a career, Winston would still face competition from Taysom Hill for the starting job.

The Saints reinstated Winston from the reserve/COVID-19 list Thursday, Larry Holder of The Athletic reports.

Winston was added to the list Sunday after being deemed a close contact of a person infected with the virus, but after self-isolating and testing negative over the last several days, he's been cleared to rejoin the Saints. The quarterback has presumably been staying connected with the Saints through virtual meetings during the team's Week 16 prep, so Winston could be available to back up Drew Brees in Friday's game against the Vikings.

The Saints placed Winston on the reserve/COVID-19 list Sunday, making him ineligible to play Week 15 versus the Chiefs, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

The NFL announced no new positive COVID-19 tests earlier Sunday, so Winston may have been deemed a close contact of an infected person or persons. Regardless, the timing of Winston's move to the list leaves Taysom Hill as the only backup option at quarterback behind starter Drew Brees (shoulder), who was reinstated from injured reserve Saturday following a four-game absence. Hill, who had started in place of Brees, was poised to fill a "jack-of-all-trades" role Week 15, while the Saints had planned on having Winston serve as Brees' direct backup.

Winston is slated to work as the No. 2 quarterback behind Drew Brees (ribs/lung) in Sunday's game against the Chiefs, Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports reports.

Brees will be back in action after the Saints activated him from injured reserve Saturday following a four-week absence due to a punctured lung and multiple rib fractures. While Brees was sidelined, Taysom Hill started each of the Saints' four games, but he'll move back into a "jack-of-all-trades" role in Week 15 that includes Wildcat quarterback packages and special-teams work. The fact that Winston is operating as the No. 2 signal-caller Sunday shouldn't be taken as a sign that he would be the next man up in the event of another Brees absence; instead, the Saints likely just wanted Hill to prepare for his multi-faceted role in practices this week once it became apparent Brees would be ready to return from IR.

Winston will serve as the backup to Taysom Hill during Sunday's game against the Falcons, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Winston was thrust into action after Drew Brees (chest) exited last weekend's win over San Francisco, but he was lackluster and completed just 6 of 10 pass attempts for 63 yards despite playing the entire second half. Coach Sean Payton has since elected to allow Hill the entire portion of starting reps at practice, and Schefter reports that Winston won't be involved in any offensive packages against the Falcons, hints that New Orleans' decision to roll with Hill under center is a firm one. Even with Brees on track to miss at least 2-to-3 weeks, it looks like Winston may not get another chance to enter the lineup.

Coach Sean Payton said Monday that he won't reveal a starting quarterback until later in the week following news that Drew Brees (ribs) is out 2-to-3 weeks, Katherine Terrell of The Athletic reports.

It's a two-man race between Winston and Taysom Hill, and both quarterbacks likely will handle first-team reps in practice this week before Payton names a starter. Winston was mediocre in place of Brees in Sunday's win over San Francisco; he completed six of 10 passes for 63 yards. Hill was up to his usual tricks, piling up 45 yards on eight carries but didn't attempt a pass. This Sunday's matchup against the Falcons' pitiful pass defense would be an ideal opportunity for Winston to showcase his skills for the Saints and other teams who could be interested in his services next season.

Winston completed 6 of 10 pass attempts for 63 yards during Sunday's 27-13 win over the 49ers.

Winston entered the game at the start of the second half after Drew Brees (ribs) picked up an injury earlier in the contest. He averaged a lackluster 6.3 yards per attempt and took a pair of sacks as he helped his team cruise to victory against an undermanned San Francisco outfit. The extent of Brees' injury is not yet known, but Winston would be in line to start next Sunday's matchup with the Falcons if his teammate is sidelined and would be an interesting fantasy option against one of the league's worst pass defenses.

Winston completed his only pass attempt for 12 yards in the Saints' 38-3 win over the Buccaneers on Sunday.

He also "added" three carries for a loss of three yards. Winston entered the game late in the fourth quarter as New Orleans cleared its bench with the game well in hand. Blowouts like this won't be commonplace for the Saints, and - barring a Drew Brees injury - Winston isn't expected to see playing time otherwise.

Winston operated as the Saints' No. 2 on Thursday as he continues to split work with Taysom Hill, Mike Triplett of ESPN.com reports.

After signing with New Orleans in the offseason, Winston was expected to battle for the backup job with the incumbent Hill, and that's how things are playing out thus far in camp. Hill is likely to see some work on offense regardless of his place in the quarterback pecking order, but Winston's value - both real-life and fantasy - is tied to the health of Drew Brees.

Winston is expected to be the top backup behind starter Drew Brees, Larry Holder of The Athletic reports.

Holder notes this is just speculation, as the Saints have not underwent any sort of organized team activities or minicamps, but the claim makes sense given Winston's resume as a starter, and the overall role presumed backup option, Taysom Hill, has on the totality of the offense. Hill's offensive flexibility makes him a valuable commodity regardless of the backup quarterback label, and the $16 million extension he signed in the offseason reinforces that notion the 29-year-old is likely considered the "future" starter as opposed to Winston. Still, as we saw with Teddy Bridgewater in 2019, the comfy confines of the Saints offensive system can do wonders for the prospects of a backup quarterback, especially one as gifted as the former No. 1 overall pick.

Winston (thumb) agreed to terms on a one-year deal with the Saints on Tuesday.

The Saints and Winston have been finalizing the contract over the last few days, and the deal is now official with the passing of Monday's deadline for signings factoring into the compensatory pick formula. The departure of Teddy Bridgewater this offseason would appear to open up the backup job for Winston, but he instead likely will be in competition for the job with holdover Taysom Hill. Even with an injury to Drew Brees, Winston isn't guaranteed to immediately lead the offense as Bridgewater did last season. However, spending a year under the tutelage of Brees and Sean Payton should still prove beneficial after the 2015 first-overall pick led the NFL with 30 interceptions in 2019.

Winston (thumb) is in the process of finalizing a one-year contract with the Saints, Charles Robinson of Yahoo Sports reports.

Reports surfaced shortly after the conclusion of the 2020 NFL Draft on Saturday that the Saints were interested in bringing Winston aboard, and the two sides were apparently able to quickly hammer out the parameters of a deal. As Mike Triplett of ESPN.com notes, the Saints may choose to wait until after 4 p.m. ET to make Winston's signing official, as New Orleans wouldn't have to surrender a compensatory draft choice after that deadline. Assuming the deal ultimately gets finalized, Robinson notes that Winston wouldn't be guaranteed the top backup quarterback job vacated when Teddy Bridgewater signed with Carolina in March; instead, Winston would have to battle with holdover Taysom Hill for the No. 2 role in a best-case scenario. Even though Winston's path to a starting gig in New Orleans would be blocked barring an injury to Drew Brees, the opportunity to spend a developmental year under offensive guru Sean Payton could help the 26-year-old cash in as a free agent next offseason in a manner similar to Bridgew

Winston's (thumb/knee) former coach in Tampa Bay, Bruce Arians, said Wednesday in an interview on Fox Sports Radio's "The Rich Eisen Show" that he's reached out to two teams, campaigning for them to sign the quarterback, Eduardo A. Encina of the Tampa Bay Times reports. "I talked to two teams," Arians said. "I think it was just to [tell them], 'Get him on your roster' and it would be a great fit. One team was not interested and the other one was."

Winston's hopes of returning to Tampa Bay for a sixth season ended nearly two weeks ago, when it became apparent that Tom Brady was leaving New England to sign with the Buccaneers. Though he's just 26 years old and has 70 career starts on his resume, Winston's high turnover rate has likely contributed heavily to the cool market he's faced thus far in free agency. With few -- if any -- starting jobs open for Winston and another experienced, more accomplished option in Cam Newton also looking for work, Winston could be forced to settle for a backup job at his next stop.

Winston's (thumb/knee) 2020 status is currently the subject of much speculation, and the Buccaneers sound increasingly open to other free-agent options at the position, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

Auman formed his conclusions regarding the team's seemingly cooling interest on their first overall pick of 2015 from comments made by both general manager Jason Licht and head coach Bruce Arians during the NFL Combine. Arians referred to Winston as an "unknown quantity" while heaping unfettered praise on fellow free-agent-to-be Shaq Barrett in the same breath. The veteran offensive guru also made mention of a head coach being obligated to explore the possibility of a better option at the position if there are any doubts about the starting quarterback, following up that remark by offering up the names of Tom Brady and Phillip Rivers as players whose availability he'd theoretically inquire about ahead of free agency. Licht would only offer tepid endorsement of Winston in his own right, and given the transition and franchise tags would cost the Bucs $25 and $27 million, respectively, for this coming season, there appears to be growing evidence the team may be prepared to move on.

Winston reportedly underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus that required trimming, NFL.com reports.

The report doesn't specify when the procedure occurred, but this nugget only reinforces that the QB -- who was already known to have previously been dealing with a hairline fracture in his throwing thumb -- played through some aches and pains this past season. In the process, the 26-year-old threw for 5,109 yards, but logged a shaky 33:30 TD:INT ratio. In any case, as free agency approaches, this nugget adds some context to the mixed results the No. 1 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft put up in 2019. At this stage, a return to the Bucs -- either on a new deal or through a franchise or transition tag -- still seems like a plausible outcome for Winston.

Winston has undergone LASIK surgery to improve his vision, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Winston has dealt with nearsightedness since his collegiate days at Florida State, and question marks surrounding his vision resurfaced at the end of the 2019 season when coach Bruce Arians said "[Winston] can't read the scoreboard but he can see the guys in front of him." Whether at the behest of Tampa Bay's coaching staff or via his own discretion, Winston has now undergone a laser-assisted eye procedure with the hope of improving his vision. Of course, it remains to be seen what effect the surgery will ultimately have in potentially enhancing the 26-year-old's accuracy. Winston, who became the first signal-caller in NFL history pass for at least 30 touchdowns and 30 interceptions last season, is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent in March. He also dealt with a fracture in his right thumb during the latter portion of the 2019 campaign.

Winston has a full cast on the right thumb injury that he played through down the stretch of the 2019 season, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

The Buccaneers termed the issue a slight fracture, which he suffered Week 14 and impacted his practice reps in advance of the final three games. During that span, he tossed 10 interceptions to reach the dubious 30-30 club: he's the only QB in NFL history to record at least 30 touchdowns and 30 picks in the same campaign. He didn't exactly get an endorsement from Bruce Arians following the season finale, with the coach telling Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times the team will make a decision on the signal-caller's future in the next couple weeks. Winston's rookie contract has come to an end, so one of the franchise or transition tags may be his best bet to stick around Tampa Bay.

Winston suffered an injury to his right throwing hand during Sunday's contest versus the Colts, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

Winston racked up a whopping 277 yards and two touchdowns on 20-for-28 passing in the first half, but he also mixed in a pick-six among two interceptions. With an injury in tow, he's questionable to return to the contest, leaving Ryan Griffin to direct the offense for the time being.

Winston (ankle) practiced in full Wednesday, Carmen Vitali of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

During the Bucs' Week 11 loss to the Saints, Winston sprained his left ankle when New Orleans defensive end Trey Hendrickson landed on his leg at the 5:24 mark of the fourth quarter. On the next play, Winston tossed his third of four interceptions on the day, which was returned 55 yards to the house by Marcus Williams. Because his practice reps remained intact Wednesday, Winston's health doesn't appear to be a question. On the other hand, he's thrown multiple picks in four of the last five games and leads the NFL with 18 interceptions, making him a risky play on a weekly basis.

Winston (ankle) didn't show any signs of injury at Wednesday's practice, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.

Winston came out of Sunday's 34-17 loss to the Saints with an ankle sprain, but he should be fine for Week 12 at Atlanta. It remains to be seen if the Bucs list him on their Wednesday injury report.

Winston said he expects to be fine after sustaining a medial ankle sprain in Sunday's 34-17 loss to the Saints, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

Winston picked up the injury late in the contest, adding to a frustrating day in which he tossed four interceptions to bring his season total to an NFL-high 18. Fortunately for the signal-caller, he was able to move about the locker room Monday without the aid of a boot, suggesting the ankle issue isn't particularly worrisome. Tampa Bay may still restrict his practice reps this week as a result, however, so Winston's status will be worth tracking when the Buccaneers release their first injury report of Week 12 on Wednesday.

Winston completed 30 of 51 passes for 313 yards with two touchdowns and four interceptions in the Buccaneers' 34-17 loss to the Saints on Sunday. He also rushed twice for 23 yards and came out of the contest with a potential ankle injury, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.

The outlook is bleak all the way around coming out of the loss for Winston, who further endangered his hold on the starting job with yet another multi-interception tally and then sustained the ankle injury near the end of the contest. Winston now has an NFL-high 18 interceptions, and even though he's admittedly been the victim of some misfortune in terms of tipped passes that have been picked off. There's not been any official indication Winston is in danger of being pulled from the top job yet, but any quarterback with multiple picks in four of their last five games can't breathe easy. The Buccaneers did announce Saturday that Blaine Gabbert (shoulder) won't return this season, but Ryan Griffin is an alternative that Arians could opt to turn due to Winston's performance and/or injury issues in Week 12 against a revitalized Falcons defense.

Winston practiced in full Wednesday but is listed on the injury report with a foot issue, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM Radio reports.

Winston is fully expected to start Sunday versus the Giants, though his participation in practice Thursday and Friday will be worth monitoring. The nature and severity of his foot injury remain undisclosed. The 25-year-old quarterback managed to avoid any turnovers Week 2 versus the Panthers, and will look to log another mistake-free game against New York.